11 August 2013
IAM Cycling
Everything is possible because there are still more beautiful stages to come, and the time trial especially will suit my strengths. Although I lost the yellow jersey today, it is not a disaster.
Even if the Portuguese had hoped to take top honors on this difficult climb and the Spaniard Sergio Pardilla (MTN/Qhubeka) actually managed to grab the double victory of the stage and overall lead, the IAM Cycling team still remained true to its principles.
Reto Hollenstein provided tangible evidence of this determination by getting into the days breakaway and winning three intermediate sprints in spite of a brutal day in 45 degree temperatures, or well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Marcel Wyss confirmed that the stage was extremely difficult with three category 3 climbs and summit finish at the top of a category 1 beast that reached up to 1800 meters.
The hardest thing was to endure and beat the heat. I suffered a lot and 20 kilometers from the finish I knew that I would not be able to go with the best. I tried instead to go at my own pace and limit my losses. I gave everything. My efforts have paid off because I overtook many riders in the last five kilometers. The gap the Portuguese has gained is not insurmountable. I have not lost the Tour of Portugal. I am motivated, and although I dont have the same form I enjoyed at the Tour of Romandie, I will go home having given my last bit of energy.
Kjell Carlström, one of IAM Cyclings directors present, stressed that all the riders are committed.
Schelling, Fumeaux, Hollenstein all went hell for leather as did Aregger, Klemme, Hinault, Saramotins and Pliuschin. Collectively and tactically we did everything perfectly. This is encouraging because the Tour of Portugal is far from finished. And Marcel Wyss still has a very good chance.
